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Press Releases
SEATTLE -- The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation today committed nearly $3.4 million in grants to bolster Internet connections for libraries in five states. It also announced partnerships with 14 additional states to help public libraries compete for federal broadband stimulus funds. Nationally, libraries report that patron demand for high-speed Internet access is growing faster than their ability to provide increased bandwidth. A recent American Library Association study reports that 60 percent of all libraries say their current Internet speed is insufficient. Link to Press Release
Little Rock, AR: Today, Governor Mike Beebe addressed more than 100 library leaders, community partners, broadband providers and local and state leaders gathered for the Arkansas Opportunity Online Broadband Summit to take the first steps to improving connectivity in the Arkansas public libraries. Assembled by the Arkansas State Library, the summit participants examined the benefits of high-speed Internet connectivity in Arkansas public libraries and communities and explored new solutions to improve and sustain connectivity. Link to Press Release
Little Rock, AR: Each year, close to 2.8 million Arkansas residents use Internet computers in public libraries to find jobs, take online courses, or obtain important government forms. However, nearly one-third of all Arkansas public libraries and branches do not offer Internet connections fast enough to meet the needs of its patrons, according to a recent survey of all public libraries in the state. To help ensure that every library in Arkansas can provide adequate Internet connections, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has invited the Arkansas State Library to participate in its pilot Opportunity Online broadband grant program, which will help libraries in seven states connect to high-speed Internet access. Link to Press Release
The Bill & Melinda Gates FoundationSEATTLE -- A pilot initiative announced today by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will help public libraries in seven states secure faster Internet connections so more people can access a full range of online applications and opportunities. Link to Release
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